Fecal samples under microscope

[Alexander1]

my chameleon just got cleared of parasites today, but it definitely got me thinking about the possibility of buying a microscope and possibly inspecting myself.
I've always had the train of thought that almost anything can be learned through Google lol, my vet put a nice sized dent in my wallet and weather or not my Cham needed the treatment was completely in his hands since I had no choice but to trust his advise.
I'm a mechanic at a dealer and I always advise my customers to read up on what they can so they won't be vonurable to the infamous shady mechanics, you guys can see where I'm going with this... Does anyone have any ideas what I would need to be able to be successful in my quest for doo doo exploration, I instantly thought of the magic school bus when I wrote this btw... Thanks!

 

[jpowell86]

I have done my own using my compound microscope. You will need a compound microscope, not stereoscopic or dissecting, slides, cover slip and saline. It's actually very interesting to see all the bacteria and protozoan that can be in the tiniest amount of poop smear. Of course having all the materials isn't the end of it. The vets get paid not only for the equipment they possess, but the fact that they know what they are looking for.

 

[bobcochran]

Dez, a member on thSee forums put out an excellent video for the whole fecal examination procedure, including materials and equipment needed. I'm sure you can find it if you do a search.

 

[bobcochran]

Dez, a member on thSee forums put out an excellent video for the whole fecal examination procedure, including materials and equipment needed. I'm sure you can find it if you do a search.

Found Dez's video: How to do your own fecal float

 

[wodesorel]

Get yourself a nice reference book or wall chart with images of what to look for. I worked as a medical assistant for a shelter and it really isn't hard once you learn to set it up properly. Even when I managed the cat programs I'd run fecals to save time for the medical staff when I was off the clock. Hunting through the slide takes time, but it's kind of fun in it's own way, if you like puzzles & find 'em games. I've always been particular on who does fecals on my animals after watching how quickly some trained medical professional will call it clear. Had a really bad experience with a group of foster kittens where 8 different vets and techs missed a serious and multiple parasite load for two entire months before one actually took the time to sift through and find the reason why they were dying on me. (And it was basically every parasite possible, all at once.)

 

[Alexander1]

Thanks everyone for ur help

 

[brownie64]

Hay remember when you do this you are looking at a three dimensional world so you'll need to focus in an out in the same places even if you see something that is in focus otherwise might miss something. I have been doing my own for over a year now so far only a pinworm infestation in my Uromastyx. It has saved me a bunch and the learning curve isn't that bad. I paid for the microscope, and supplies with the first few fecal I did. I would definitely recommend it.